Municipality

Lilla Edet Municipality – facts, statistics, and insights

Lilla Edet Municipality is one of Västra Götaland's rural gems, beautifully situated along the Göta River between Gothenburg and Trollhättan. Here, historic mill environments, active community life, and proximity to both the city and nature meet. The municipality is perhaps best known for its paper industry and its strategic location along the river, but also encompasses lively small towns, agriculture, and a growing population.

Population and Demographics

With just over 14,000 residents, Lilla Edet is one of the smaller municipalities in the region – but also one that has seen steady growth in recent years. Many families have been attracted here due to the proximity to Gothenburg and affordable housing. The population pyramid is relatively even, although the municipality has a slightly higher proportion of seniors than the national average. Many young adults commute to work in nearby cities, while children and the elderly benefit from local schools and care services.

Tax, Welfare, and Municipal Services

Lilla Edet has a total municipal tax rate of 22.37%, which, together with county council tax (11.48%) and funeral fee (0.29%), results in a tax pressure of 33.85% – excluding church fee. The church fee applies to members of the Church of Sweden (1.37%). Tax revenues primarily fund schools, elderly care, social services, and infrastructure maintenance. The municipality prioritizes maintaining high standards in childcare and eldercare, despite challenges posed by an aging population. There are several care and nursing homes, as well as well-developed recreational activities for children and youth.

• Municipal tax: 22.37%
• County council tax: 11.48%
• Funeral fee: 0.29%
• Church fee (for members): 1.37%

Economy and Labor Market

The local economy is dominated by the paper industry in Lilla Edet, but also includes small businesses within construction, transportation, and services. Many residents commute to Gothenburg, Trollhättan, or other nearby larger labor markets. Unemployment is slightly below the national average, largely due to good commuting options and a stable private sector. The municipality faces typical challenges for smaller communities: attracting new companies and creating more local jobs, but also benefits from its strategic location along one of the country’s main transport routes.

Education and Business

Lilla Edet offers primary schools in several towns and a high school with vocational programs. Collaboration with local businesses is an important part of the school profile, especially within technology and industry. The municipality also has an active community life and many entrepreneurs within green industries, trade, and services. It’s common to find small-scale food producers, artisans, and cultural projects contributing to local identity.

Geography and Attractions

The Göta River influences the municipality – from classic lock environments and fishing waters to hiking trails and nature reserves. The Lilla Edet industrial environment and Gåseborgs locks are popular excursions, as are the local churches and heritage farms. Nature offers cycling paths, mushroom picking areas, and lakes for swimming. An interesting fact is that Lilla Edet is one of the few places in Sweden where remnants of old river ferries and mill traditions can still be seen in everyday life.

FAQ – Common Questions about Lilla Edet Municipality

• What is the municipal tax rate in Lilla Edet?
  22.37% (total tax pressure excluding church fee: 33.85%).
• How many people live in the municipality?
  Just over 14,000 inhabitants.
• What do people work with?
  The industry, mainly the paper mill, as well as small businesses and commuting to larger cities.
• Are there high schools in the municipality?
  Yes, with vocational programs and close links to the local business community.
• What are the main attractions?
  The Göta River, lock environments, and the local industrial history.